Yankees to try Alex Rodriguez at first base

When Alex Rodriguez returns to the New York Yankees next season he could do so with a new position.

The Yankees have spoken to Rodriguez about learning to play first base where he would back up Mark Teixeira according to general manager Brian Cashman.

Rodriguez is expected to play third base and designated hitter but if he can not play the position following two hip surgeries and a year-long suspension the Yankees want to have a contingency plan for keep his bat in their lineup.

“I don’t think it’s safe to assume that he can play third base,” Cashman said via, ESPN. “With his age and missing a full year, you have to have some perspective. This is a very difficult game. Alex is up for that challenge, but I think it’s safer to assume that might not be something that he can handle the whole year.”

The Yankees owe the 39-year-old $61 million over the next three years.

“I know one thing, he’s a great presence in the lineup when he’s healthy,” Cashman said. “And we look forward to good health and obviously production. But to assume anything right now on the front end, I can’t do that.”